Wednesday, May 11, 2011

I know these are about the most cliche tourist photos you could take, but I think millenium park is unbelievably gorgeous and I couldn't resist the lure of the reflective-bean-whose-real-name-I-can-never-remember. Christopher and I spent a really fun morning walking around taking pictures. In the afternoon, I geeked out over an architectural boat tour. One of the areas I'm studying about for my dissertation is lived spaces, so I was thrilled to hear so much about the architecture of various buildings around Chicago. It was also amazing that the guide could remember hundreds of dates, names, and architects. Have you ever done a boat tour?--I know they're kind of cheesy, but I loved learning all the history.

I love the bean! I didn't even know it had a different name! Glad you're having fun in Chi-town! Make sure to get some popcorn (the mixed caramel and cheese is the best) and some italian style roast beef!

I thought the bean was the silliest thing ever when they first put it up, but I totally love going there and taking cheesy touristy shots, and I'm from the suburbs originally- it's also amazing for people watching. I think the real name is Cloudgate maybe? And I've been totally wanting to take one of the boat tours, but I'm more often in the city during winter (holidays), so it hasn't worked out for me yet. Sounds really fun!

i've been to chicago three times for work (we usually take friday morning off to do some shopping and signtseeing)...and every year, i've made a trip to the bean to take pictures. just seems like something you should do while you're there. :)

this year was the first time i've done a boat tour - definitely worth it!

Aww, I miss Millennium Park! Such a beautiful spot. I lived in Chicago for a few years and worked in the loop. I walked by Millennium Park every day! The boat tours are GREAT, too...not cheesy at all. It's a great way to get your bearings in the loop, and what's not to love about seeing the city's beautiful architecture? Glad you enjoyed the Windy City!

EEGAD! I love doing historical tours and learning all of those great details! (My goal is to one day go to England to do a tour of the moorlands and the Bronte sisters) I've been on a boat tour once in Alaska but it was mostly looking at nature--maybe I should go to Chicago and check out the boat tours that they have to offer :)

I did the boat tour in Chicago and loved it. The only problem was it was so cold on the day of the tour that everyone was complaining non-stop. As a Canadian from the east coast, I had a very poor impression of Chicago before my visit. I was sure I was going to be mugged. I was delighted with the city and had a wonderful visit. I was not mugged. I plan to return some day. Lessons learned: be open minded, embrace opportunities, set aside the negative first impressions.

I love touristy photos like these, and I think it's also mandatory to bring home some cheesy souvenirs, like magnets and t-shirts. One of my favourite boat tours was along the canals in Amsterdam. The house boats are amazing!

the official name of the bean is "cloud gate"...and, yes, everyone needs to take pictures there when they visit chicago! i know i have about 35, myself (and i live there). :)i also LOVE your effortless yet ADORABLE outfit. simple can be amazing sometimes.

i've only been to chicago once, but totally went on an architecture boat tour. no shame--it was awesome!! there is some really fabulous architecture there and i loved hearing about the city's history too. every town should have one.

I went on one of those tours when I first moved here and I loved it! I see Chicago in such a particular was because of it. Also, the Bean and I are like this (you know how my fingers are all twisted now). I never tire of taking photos of myself in it. It's like a modern day mythological problem... Emily: Narcissus. Bean: pond. World: not really so different.

Also, "cute shirt." No, really, this outfit is so simple and awesome and flattering on your pretty self. The bean was so lucky. :)